Craftsman 16 Inch Corded Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 16 Inch Corded Chainsaw is a powerful electric chainsaw designed for residential cutting tasks. It features a 16-inch Oregon bar and chain, a 12-amp motor for consistent power, automatic oiling, tool-free chain tensioning, a wrap-around handle for control, and a low-kickback design for safety. This manual covers safety instructions, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure safe and effective use.

1. Safety Instructions 2. Parts Identification 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls & Features 6. Operation Guide 7. Chain Maintenance 8. Cleaning & Storage 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Failure to follow warnings can result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.

Hazard	Precaution
Electric Shock	Use only 120V AC outlet; keep cord away from cutting area and heat/oil.
Kickback	Hold saw firmly with both hands; do not cut with tip of bar.
Projectiles	Wear safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and sturdy footwear.
Fire/Explosion	Do not use near flammable liquids or gases.
Contact	Keep hands away from chain; always engage chain brake when not cutting.

WARNING! Never operate saw while tired, ill, or under the influence. Keep bystanders and pets at a safe distance.

Parts Identification

Key components of the Craftsman 16 Inch Corded Chainsaw.

Motor Housing: Contains 12-amp electric motor.
Front Handle: Wrap-around design with trigger switch and safety lock.
Rear Handle: For additional control and stability.
Guide Bar: 16-inch Oregon bar with low-kickback tip.
Chain: Oregon low-kickback chain with preset tension.
Chain Brake: Manual/automatic brake to stop chain.
Oiling System: Automatic oiler with manual override button.
Chain Tensioner: Tool-free adjustment wheel.
Oil Filler Cap: For chain lubricant reservoir.
Power Cord: 6-foot heavy-duty cord with strain relief.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack all parts. Ensure you have saw, bar, chain, wrench, and manual.

Attach guide bar: Place bar onto mounting studs, aligning adjustment pin.
Install chain: Fit chain over bar sprocket, ensuring cutting teeth face forward.
Tension chain: Use tool-free tensioner wheel until chain snaps back when pulled.
Fill oil reservoir: Use recommended bar and chain oil; tighten cap securely.
Check operation: Plug into outlet, press safety lock and trigger to test (no load).

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned—too loose may derail; too tight may damage motor.

Specifications

Bar Length: 16 inches.
Motor: 12 Amp, 120V AC, 60Hz.
Chain Speed: Up to 3,500 FPM (no load).
Chain Pitch: 3/8-inch low-profile.
Gauge: 0.050-inch.
Oil Capacity: 6.0 fl oz.
Weight: 10.5 lbs (without cord).
Cord Length: 6 feet.
Automatic Oiling: Yes, with manual override.
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls & Features

Front Handle: Trigger switch with safety lock must be depressed before trigger engages. Rear Handle: For steady grip. Chain Brake: Push forward manually to engage; inertia-activated during kickback. Oiling: Automatic system feeds oil to bar/chain; manual button for extra lubrication. Tension Adjustment: Turn wheel clockwise to tighten, counterclockwise to loosen.

Tip: Always engage chain brake when carrying or starting saw.

Operation Guide

For cutting logs, branches, and pruning.

Inspect saw: Check chain tension, oil level, and cord condition.
Clear area: Remove debris, ensure secure footing.
Start: Plug in, engage safety lock, squeeze trigger.
Cutting: Let chain reach full speed before contact; use middle of bar.
Kickback prevention: Do not cut with upper tip; be aware of pinch points.
After cut: Release trigger, engage chain brake, unplug for adjustments.

WARNING! Never cut above shoulder height or on a ladder. Do not force saw—let chain do the work.

Chain Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

Task	Frequency	Procedure
Chain Sharpening	Every 2-3 hours of use	Use round file and guide; maintain 30-degree angle.
Chain Tensioning	Before each use	Adjust until chain snaps back from bar.
Bar Inspection	Monthly	Check for wear, grooves, and straightness.
Oiler Check	Each use	Ensure oil flow by holding tip over cardboard (running).
Chain Replacement	When worn or damaged	Use Oregon 91PX series chain.

CAUTION! Always unplug saw before performing any maintenance.

Cleaning & Storage

Unplug and allow saw to cool. Wipe exterior with dry cloth. Clean bar groove and oil ports with brush. Empty oil reservoir if storing over 30 days. Store in dry, locked location out of children’s reach.

CAUTION! Do not use water or solvents; avoid compressed air near motor vents.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Saw won’t start	No power, safety lock not engaged	Check outlet, cord, and ensure safety lock is depressed.
Chain doesn’t move	Chain brake engaged, loose chain	Disengage brake; adjust tension.
Poor cutting performance	Dull chain, low oil	Sharpen chain; refill oil reservoir.
Chain throws off bar	Loose tension, worn bar	Tighten chain; inspect bar for wear.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, damaged chain	Tighten all fasteners; replace chain if damaged.
Motor overheats	Forcing cut, dirty air vents	Cut at steady pace; clean vents with dry brush.

Service: For repairs, contact Craftsman customer service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 16 Inch Corded Chainsaw is covered by a 2-year limited warranty from date of purchase against defects in materials/workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or unauthorized repairs. Proof of purchase required. For warranty claims, contact Craftsman at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com/warranty.